Tuatapere’s Duck Race Celebrates Five Years of Fun and Fundraising


By Mike Goodwin – Advento Photography

Tuatapere, 29 March 2025 – Sunshine, laughter, and the unmistakable sound of squeaky ducks filled the air at Boundary Creek on Saturday as the community gathered for the 5th Annual Great Tūātapere Rubber Duck Race, a light-hearted yet powerful celebration of community spirit in support of the Tuatapere Toy Library.

Held beneath the King Street Bridge, nestled on the northern edge of Greenheart Reserve, the event once again proved why it has become a much-anticipated fixture on the town’s calendar.

From 10:30am, eager locals lined the creek, placing friendly wagers on their favourite rubber duckies and setting up chairs and gazebos for a full day of festivities. With ten back-to-back races followed by the exhilarating Bridge-to-Bridge Grand Finale at 2:20pm, the event delivered non-stop entertainment for all ages.


Racing for a Cause

What started in 2021 as a creative way to raise funds for the Tuatapere Toy Library has now evolved into a signature town event. Entirely powered by volunteers and local businesses, the race doesn’t just raise money — it brings Tuatapere together.

This year’s races were proudly sponsored by:

Bonita Buchanna the Postie, Slinky’s Sourdough, Tuatapere 4 Square, Waiau Town and Country Club, Harry’s Machines, Barrett Ag, Sparrow Logging, Boundary Creek General Store, Neat Cuts, Tui Base Camp

Each race saw colourful ducks (with names just as vibrant) released into Boundary Creek, cheered on by the crowd as they bobbed and weaved their way downstream.


Family Fun & Local Flavour

While the ducks raced, there was no shortage of fun onshore. Kids were treated to free facepainting by Flourish Facepainting, and the ever-popular bouncy castle brought endless giggles, powered by the generous support of Avril Johnston.

Tui Base Camp served up their famous Tuatapere sausages, adding a delicious local touch to the day. Spectators picnicked under the sun, sharing snacks, stories, and laughter as the races rolled on.



Heroes Behind the Scenes

The success of the event was thanks to an incredible team of dedicated volunteers and supporters:

  • Event Organiser: Nathalie Paul, whose efforts brought everything together
  • MC: John Munro, whose spirited commentary kept the energy high
  • Race Officials: Cam Pahl and Stanley Ridley
  • Duck Catchers: Cameron Johnston and Bretto Buchanan
  • Power Support: Avril Johnston, ensuring the PA system and bouncy castle ran smoothly
  • Photography/Video: Mike Goodwin – Advento Photography, capturing the day’s best moments


A Small Town with a Big Heart

From quirky duck names to the contagious laughter echoing across the creek, the 2025 Great Tūātapere Rubber Duck Race was a joyful reminder of what makes this town so special. It’s not just about rubber ducks — it’s about community, connection, and caring for our Kids.

As the final ducks crossed the finish line in the Grand Finale, the applause and cheers said it all: Tuatapere knows how to show up for its people — and have a damn good time doing it.

Until next year, may the ducks stay dry and the spirit of Tuatapere stay strong.